CooperVision’s landmark plastic neutrality initiative has reached a significant milestone, preventing more than 100 million plastic bottles (equivalent) from entering the oceans.1,2*†±
CooperVision pioneered the plastic neutral model for the contact lens industry in 2021 and, in partnership with eye care professionals, contact lens wearers, and Plastic Bank, has continued to expand the scope of the global initiative.3† The global contact lens business funds Plastic Bank’s collection, processing and reuse of general ocean-bound plastic waste that is equal to the weight of the plastic contained in participating products across 27 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, and Asia-Pacific.
Together, we’re making our oceans, our communities – and our future – better. We already have our sights set on the next 100 million
“We couldn’t be more thankful to everyone who has helped this program become an absolute success – the eye care professionals and wearers across the planet who share CooperVision’s sustainability commitment. Each plastic neutral contact lens that is prescribed and worn makes a difference,” said Aldo Zucaro, Senior Director, Corporate Responsibility, CooperCompanies. “Together, we’re making our oceans, our communities – and our future – better. We already have our sights set on the next 100 million.”
Beyond the positive impact on the environment, CooperVision’s plastic neutrality initiative benefits collection community members in more than 350 coastal communities who receive bonus payments through Plastic Bank for necessities such as groceries, cooking fuel, school tuition, and health insurance.4
As a leading manufacturer of contact lenses, CooperVision says it is dedicated to reducing its environmental footprint, and its efforts extend beyond plastic neutrality. The company has a strong track record of sustainable manufacturing and operations focused on areas in which it can make the greatest impact. CooperVision has developed best-in-class manufacturing processes resulting in award-winning conservation efforts in Puerto Rico and prestigious sustainability certifications in Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Spain, the U.K., and the U.S.
* Plastic Bank uses 1 kg of plastic to equal 50 bottles.
† Net Plastic Neutrality, in the contact lens industry, out of the top 4 global contact lens manufacturers. Net plastic neutrality is established by purchasing credits from Plastic Bank. A credit represents the collection and conversion of one kilogram of plastic that may reach or be destined for waterways; collection locations are determined by Plastic Bank. CooperVision purchases credits equal to the weight of plastic in clariti 1 day, MyDay, MiSight 1 day and Biofinity orders in a specified time period. clariti 1 day, MyDay, MiSight 1 day and Biofinity plastic is determined by the weight of plastic in the blister, the lens, and the secondary package, including laminates, adhesives, and auxiliary inputs (e.g. ink).
± Participating brand orders is defined as orders and includes sphere, 1 day toric, and multifocal product sold and distributed by CooperVision.
References
1. CVI data on file, 2022 for a complete list of participating brands by country. Total bottles as derived through Plastic Bank’s impact dashboard through as of 12/31/2021.
2. CVI data on file, 2022 for a complete list of participating brands by country. Anticipated total bottles as derived through Plastic Bank’s impact dashboard during 2022 calendar year.
3. CVI data on file, 2022.
4. CVI data on file, 2022. Total communities impacted through Plastic Bank’s impact dashboard as of 12/31/2022. https://plasticbank.com/faq/ethical-collection-communities
